Agreed. I'm a hiring manager. Gaps are not a problem to me. When you're explaining your story, just say you took a break to regroup and be very intentional abou

Agreed. I'm a hiring manager. Gaps are not a problem to me. When you're explaining your story, just say you took a break to regroup and be very intentional about making the right next step. Because it is, indeed, really hard to find something while still on the grind. What you don't mention is what you're looking for, and that's the biggest red flag to me. I'd recommend spending your time finding companies you dig and reaching out over interview prep. Take managers out for coffee. (They'll probably buy anyway.) It's a good way to warm up a lead. Even if they don't have headcount, they may be able to make a warm intro.